Description
motodrome offer this utterly charming 1956 Morris Minor Series 2 2 door saloon, finished in the desirable Empire Green with the original suede green leather with ivory piping.
One of the last splitscreen Minors produced, this low mileage example has a wonderful story to tell.
It’s been in the West Country most of it’s life. The first owner, a Mr Robert Akeman, was a director of an agricultural suppliers in Radstock Somerset. He bought it new in April 1956 as a car for his wife to do the school run with – a round trip of 14 miles a day. By 1975 it was largely kept in the garage but still in use sparingly, and the mileage then was just 29331.
Mr Akeman kept the car for a full 49 years, by which time it was looking a bit sorry for itself, before selling it in 2005 to a gentleman who carried out a sympathetic restoration and recommissioning of the car, and a repaint. 18 years later the paint is nicely settled in, and the whole car exhibits a lovely level of patina. Subsequent owners have looked after it carefully, and judging from the plaques and correspondence in the large history file, it’s been featured at many classic car shows over the years, mainly in the West Country.
The current odometer reading is a low 38000 miles. Whilst we’re not in a position to warrant this, the history we have, and it’s usage, would suggest it’s correct. .
Originality buffs will note that, quite unusually these days, it retains it’s original 803cc A-series engine – most have been replaced with 1098 or even 1275cc engines by now.
Other deviations from original specification have been kept to a minimum, but include:
• The original semaphore trafficators have been replaced with proper indicators
• Front brakes have been upgraded to the later 8in variety
• Oil filter changed to cartridge type
• Polarity changed to negative earth
Recent (since 2021) history highlights include
• Replacement dynamo and water pump
• New window felt seals
• New fuel pump
• Hoses and heater pipes replaced (the heater works well)
• Refurbished carburettor
• New fuel tank sender
As above, we have a big history file for it, plus other paraphernalia including workshop manual, period atlas, a box of spares, and a car cover.
Because of it’s age, it’s RFL, MOT and ULEZ exempt
Early Minors, with their split windscreens, small rear window, leather trim, sprung steering wheel, have a charm that the later variants can lack, and this one has charm in spades.
On test it performed brilliantly, with a very well set up engine, nice drivetrain, light steering and good brakes. It’s no sportscar, but around town or on country lanes it’s a lovely drive.
On our own website, you’ll find our usual two videos: a walkaround appraisal, and driving impressions, which form part of the description.
Viewing by prior appointment
